Two Western Congressmen say more information is needed as Congress makes decisions about the federal budget, and about opening up more land in Wyoming and other states to mining and drilling - under the argument that it’s a good move for jobs and the economy. Congressman Raul Grijalva of Arizona and Senator Tom Udall of Colorado - both Democrats - have made a request to the General Accounting Office for numbers related to development on federal lands - most of which are in the West. Rep. Grijalva says we already know that hardrock mining, including uranium, pays no federal royalties.
Debate about fees and royalties feature concerns from mining and drilling companies that if fees are too high, they'll go to other countries - or, pass costs on to consumers. Matt Garrington with the Checks and Balances Project says Wyomingites shouldn't be fooled by those threats.
Copper, oil, gas, coal, phosphate and gold are examples of minerals extracted from federal lands throughout the West that will be included in the report.
Debate about fees and royalties feature concerns from mining and drilling companies that if fees are too high, they'll go to other countries - or, pass costs on to consumers. Matt Garrington with the Checks and Balances Project says Wyomingites shouldn't be fooled by those threats.
Copper, oil, gas, coal, phosphate and gold are examples of minerals extracted from federal lands throughout the West that will be included in the report.
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